By OBAKENG MAJE
By OBAKENG MAJEThe Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) has put aside R450 000 for a free basic service programme. The programme that is intended for the provision of free basic services to poorer households was launched in Reivilo on Monday.
The GTLM mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe said under this policy, the municipality was tasked to identify indigent households that would receive services – such as water and electricity – for free or at substantially subsidised rates.
“Our municipality is providing insight into those households that struggle to afford access to basic services. Those who are eligible will get R50 electricity and 50kl of water. A free basic service is a national programme, that was established back in 2001 and the aim of the launch was to create awareness.
“We encourage those who are regarded as indigents to come forward and register in order for them to benefit. We will need a certified ID copy, marriage certificate, payslip and affidavit. The beneficiary should also be the owner of the household and have an income of lesser than R4930 per month,” he said.
Meanwhile, Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD) councillor, Mika Moeti who is also the chairperson for Finance at the municipality, shared the same sentiments. Moeti said, this programme will assist many households, who are subjected to poverty, inequality and unemployment.
“All our councillors in various wards have token machines and can assist those in needy. The free basic service policy encapsulates that the registration is renewed annually. This is to ensure that relevant individuals benefit from this programme.
“The programme has made a positive impact and we are happy with the turn-out. We have 18 771 individuals already registered on our database. We had a successful launch in Reivilo and afterwards, we donated food parcels to 10 elderly people,” he said.
Moeti said they also proceeded to Modimong village, near Taung where they handed over food parcels to elderly people.
The Guardian 